Category Archives: Criminal Defense
Illinois DUI Charges When You Have a Minor Passenger in the Car
DUI charges involving a minor passenger can carry enhanced penalties in Illinois, including mandatory fines, community service, license consequences, and potential felony charges. The State of Illinois takes driving under the influence very seriously, with significant penalties for those convicted of DUI offenses. The stakes can increase even further when certain aggravating factors are… Read More »
Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in Illinois: What You Need to Know
Illinois drug paraphernalia charges can carry criminal consequences even when a person is not separately charged with possessing a controlled substance. Yes, you can face criminal charges in Illinois for the unlawful possession of certain items classified as drug paraphernalia. Although some people may view a paraphernalia charge as a minor offense, a conviction… Read More »
What Happens if You Get Caught Selling Prescription Drugs in Illinois?
Understanding Illinois prescription drug laws can help you recognize the serious criminal consequences that may arise from the unlawful possession or distribution of certain medications. You have some extra hydrocodone left over from your surgery. You want to make a little extra money, so you sell it to a friend. You get caught. While… Read More »
What Should I Do If the Police Call Me into the Station for Questioning?
Understanding your rights before speaking with police can help you make informed decisions when law enforcement asks you to come to the station for questioning. Being called into the police station for questioning can be frightening and intimidating. Whether you are a witness, a person of interest, or even a suspect, you have important… Read More »
Should I Take a Breathalyzer Test in Illinois?
Understanding the difference between roadside and post-arrest chemical testing can help Illinois drivers recognize the potential consequences of submitting to or refusing a breath, blood, or urine test during a DUI investigation. At the moment you are asked to submit a breath sample to a law enforcement officer, it may feel like there are… Read More »
Understanding the Right to Remain Silent in Illinois
Understanding when Miranda rights apply can help you recognize when the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney may become important during police questioning. Do police officers have to tell you, “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court… Read More »
“Am I Being Detained?” – Questions to Ask During Interactions with Law Enforcement
Knowing what to ask—and what not to say—can help you protect your rights during an interaction with police. Interacting with law enforcement is no time to fool around. You want to be very intentional with your interactions and ensure that you are not putting yourself in danger. The law is very procedural and very… Read More »
Client Facing 108 Years in Prison Has 17 Felony Charges Dismissed Thanks to Strategic Defense by Patel Law, P.C.
How Strategic Criminal Defense Helped an Illinois Client Avoid a Potential Life Sentence When someone is charged with a crime as serious as Class X Felony Distribution of Child Pornography, the consequences can be life-changing. In this case, our client faced 18 separate Class X charges, with each charge carrying a mandatory minimum sentence… Read More »
Defendant Awarded New Trial On Appeal
Illinois appellate court orders a new trial after finding that a defense attorney’s romantic and sexual relationship with her client created an actual conflict that adversely affected her representation. In People v. Hayes, 2024 IL App (5th) 210368, the Illinois Appellate Court for the Fifth District vacated the defendant’s convictions and sentences and remanded… Read More »
Defendant Denied Fitness Hearing Raises Issue on Appeal
The Fifth District vacated the trial court’s fitness order after finding that the judge relied on an expert’s conclusion without independently exercising judicial judgment on whether the defendant was fit to stand trial. In People v. Doolin, 2024 IL App (5th) 230053-U, the Illinois Appellate Court, Fifth District, vacated a trial court order finding… Read More »